after running under the rain for 30 minutes my white sneakers had a foul stench. I tried disinfectant and washing them with soap and water and lots of rubbing and sunlight to dry.

While that got rid of most of the smell, my white sneakers are now brownish, specially around the shoelaces.

I’ve never washed sneakers in the washing machine. Am I going to ruin them?

    • eezeebee@lemmy.ca
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      4 months ago

      I should have clarified that the ones I get are about $15 a pair and last me 6 months. But yes, I’ve tried everything, baking soda, vinegar, freezing them, washing and drying - even if it works initially the smell comes back within days.

        • eezeebee@lemmy.ca
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          4 months ago

          If I could go barefoot 100% of the time I would. I really don’t know what else I can do.

          • Catoblepas@lemmy.blahaj.zone
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            4 months ago

            Do you wear cotton (or another natural fiber) socks? Polyester tends to make smells linger a lot more because it doesn’t wick moisture properly.

            • eezeebee@lemmy.ca
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              4 months ago

              I’m really not sure what material they are (dozens of randoms pairs), but I’ll keep this in mind next time I need socks. Thank you

            • eezeebee@lemmy.ca
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              4 months ago

              The ones I’ve had in the past were even worse, made my feet sweat a lot. These days I usually wear slip on shoes, they’re more breathable and seem to dry out better overnight. That or just sandals.

              • edric@lemm.ee
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                4 months ago

                How about foot powder? Ever since I first tried it, I’ve never worn socks and shoes without putting on foot powder first ever again. It really helps with sweat and odor.

                • eezeebee@lemmy.ca
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                  4 months ago

                  I don’t think I’ve tried that. Any recommendations? Needs to be safe for cats

                  • edric@lemm.ee
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                    4 months ago

                    Maybe you can try the ones that don’t have aluminum in them and just use corn starch. It’s similar to deodorant vs antiperspirant, with the latter being the most effective, because it has aluminum in it.